The fog sidled in slowly, lying in wait in the hollows and dales before leaching out and swallowing the land whole. Darkness wore a misty shroud which light could not penetrate, refracted from the formidable force.

Winter, too, can be a challenging foe, particularly when the gray days seem to bleed one into the other. Lifeless, listless, lethargic.

Breathe life into your spirit and home by starting seeds indoors. Now, is the perfect time, and you needn’t any fancy tools or large spaces.  Starting seeds now allows for bigger, better producing plants. Further still, you get to choose what you want to plant, not just what’s available at local home centers or garden stores. Essentially, you’re getting a jump on the season.

Start with containers – any container, but they must have drainage holes to allow excess water to run off. Consider egg cartons or old cell packs from past seasons. You’ll need a tray to set the containers on to collect the excess water. If growing multiple seeds or varieties, you may want to label the plants accordingly.

Next, you’ll need soil. It’s best to start with a potting soil that was made specifically for seed germination, aptly termed “germinating mix”. The key is to keep the soil moist without overwatering. Mist bottles generally work best.

Finally, plant the seeds according to the instructions provided on the seed packet. Some may require the seeds be protected with a plastic covering or container to help create a more humid environment. Once the seeds begin to sprout, the covering should be removed.

Plants can then be transferred to the garden after the last frost free date, which is generally considered May 15th for our corner of the world.

Reach out to Sweeney’s with any of your seed questions. We’re always here to help you and your garden grow!

Plant of the Week

Dwarf Prairie Dropseed

Clump forming, ornamental grass with fine textured foliage produces fragrant, golden flowers which bloom above the foliage in late Summer.  In Fall, foliage changes to a golden-orange as tiny seeds drop to the ground.  Foliage fades to a light bronze in Winter.  Prefers sun and moist, well-drained soil.  Grows 24-36″ tall and 8-12″ wide.  Attracts butterflies.  Deer resistant.

“Of Winter’s lifeless world each tree

Now seems a perfect part;

Yet each one holds summer’s secret 

Deep down within its heart.”

-Charles G. Stater

Warm wishes,

Kim Sweeney